AKC Border Collie Puppy buyer etiquette

(Please read this BEFORE contacting us! Thank you!)

How to Find the Right AKC Border Collie Puppy — The Smart Way

Looking to buy a Border Collie puppy in California? STOP. Before you start searching for “AKC puppies near me” or clicking every post that says “available puppies,” take a deep breath and read this guide. Because if you’re doing it right, you’re not just looking for a puppy—you’re choosing the right Border Collie breeder. And that makes all the difference.

1. Stop Looking for a Puppy—Look for a Breeder

The most common mistake puppy buyers make is saying, “I need an AKC Border Collie puppy by the fall.” Then they go searching for a litter due in August.

Bad idea.

Puppies aren’t interchangeable. Each breeder has unique goals—some focus on working drive, others on structure, temperament, or show ability. What one breeder calls their ideal pup might be completely different from another’s.

So instead of chasing random litters, find a breeder who shares your values, one who produces dogs suited to your lifestyle. Build a connection, and then be willing to wait. The wait will be worth it.

2. Expect to Wait for Your Puppy

It’s rare to get a well-bred puppy in under two months. Four to six months is normal. Sometimes it’s a year. Yes, even other dog breeders wait for the right pup. Great things take time—especially Border Collies.

3. Introduce Yourself Like You Mean It

When you email a breeder, put effort into it. A good first message is several paragraphs long and outlines:

Why the Border Collie is right for you
Your experience with dogs
Your lifestyle and plans for training or dog sports
Why you’re reaching out to this specific breeder

Here’s a great example:

“Hi, my name is Jane and I’m looking for a Border Collie. I’ve done a lot of research and I believe they’re the right breed for me because I’m active, love training, and enjoy mental challenges. I’m reaching out because your focus on working ability and health really aligns with what I want in a dog.”

That kind of email gets answered. “How much for a puppy?” does not.

4. Be Honest About Pricing and Plans

It’s okay to ask about cost, but do it respectfully—ideally after some rapport has been built. Most breeders will share not only their price but also the range you can expect to see for AKC Border Collie puppies in California. If one price seems unusually high or low, dig deeper and ask why.

5. Be Ready for a “No”

Not every breed is a good match for every person. That’s just reality. If a breeder says no, ask why and take it as a learning opportunity. Sometimes another breed or a different puppy timeline might be a better fit.

6. Don’t Join Multiple Waiting Lists (Unless You’re Honest About It)

Once you’re on a breeder’s list, they turn away other buyers. If you suddenly back out because you got a puppy from someone else, that causes real frustration. It’s not just a transaction—we build dreams around each placement. So please, if you’re on multiple lists, be transparent about it.

7. Don’t Expect to Pick Your Puppy

You may fall in love with a certain pup’s markings, but your breeder sees the bigger picture—personality, structure, drive, and suitability. The breeder’s priority is matching each pup to the right home, not letting you “choose” based on color or cuteness.

Remember, what you want and what you need might be different—and breeders are trained to see that difference.

8. Finish with One Breeder Before Starting with Another

If you’ve had a meaningful conversation with a breeder, follow through. If you decide they’re not the right fit, let them know before moving on. Closing that loop respectfully helps everyone involved and reflects well on you. Here’s something potentially shocking: if we can’t supply you with the puppy that you’re looking for, we’re very happy to connect you with another breeder, who shares the same or similar vision that we do – just ask.

9. Every Breeder Knows Every Other Breeder

This isn’t eBay. The reputable breeder community is small, especially among those who show, title, and health test their dogs. If you ghost one breeder and show up on another’s list, it will come out. Trust is everything in the world of responsible breeding.

Final Thoughts: Be Excellent to Each Other

Buying a puppy isn’t a retail transaction. It’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship—between you, your breeder, and your dog. Whether you’re looking to buy a Border Collie puppy in California or researching Border Collie breeders in California, remember this: kindness, honesty, and patience go a long way.

Because when you finally get that puppy—matched just for you—you’ll realize it was all worth the wait.

Ready to take the next step? Connect with us at Aleannan Border Collies. We raise AKC puppies with love, purpose, and a commitment to excellence.